Renault Duster to get a hybrid powertrain on October 17

The Renault Duster is set to receive its much-awaited hybrid powertrain on October 17. The midsize SUV was launched in India back in March at a starting introductory price of Rs 10.29 lakh. At the time of launch, the Duster was available in 2 engine options – 1.0-litre turbo petrol and 1.3-litre turbo petrol. The automaker had confirmed that the SUV would receive a hybrid powertrain in the festive season. Now, the hybrid model finally has a launch date.

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Renault Duster: Everything we know about the hybrid model

Currently, the Renault Duster is available in 2 engine options. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine generates a maximum power output of 100hp and 160Nm of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, with no automatic transmission options on offer. Renault claims a mileage of 19.4km/l on this engine.

Meanwhile, the 1.3-litre turbo petrol produces a maximum power output of 163hp and 280Nm of torque. It can be mated to a 6-speed manual or DCT gearbox. The manual variants of this powertrain offer an ARAI-tested mileage of 17.75km/l. The automatic variants have a fuel economy of 18.45km/l.

Finally, the 1.8-litre ‘E-Tech’ strong hybrid engine will join the lineup on October 17. This system comprises a 1,789cc four-cylinder petrol engine and 2 electric motors. A 20hp motor serves as the generator, while the other unit powers the wheels, churning out 49hp. The system produces a combined output of 160hp and 172Nm. It is linked to a 1.4kWh battery.

The hybrid variant will be decked out with premium features. It will rock a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display. The former will support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other features like a dual-zone climate control system, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and ventilated front seats will also make the cut.

Safety features will include 6 airbags, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and more. The Level 2 ADAS suite of the Duster comprises 17 functions.

Renault sold out the first batch of the Duster Hybrid soon after the launch of the SUV. It says that nearly 40% of customers in metro markets opted for the strong hybrid powertrain. The automaker will reopen bookings when it launches the powertrain next month. However, the new bookings will not be fulfilled until 2027. The Hybrid variant will carry exclusive badging, but will remain cosmetically unchanged otherwise.

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Final Thoughts

Prices for the Duster lineup start at Rs 10.49 lakh and go up to Rs 18.69 lakh. The hybrid powertrain will be available on the top-spec Iconic trim only. Upon launch, it will rival the strong-hybrid models of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder, and Maruti Suzuki Victoris.